Missoula Farmers Market

The Missoula Farmers Market holds the distinction of being Montana's original farmers market, established as a non-profit corporation on June 7, 1972, with the first market held on July 21, 1972. Founded by visionaries Mavis McKelvey and Chinwon Reinhardt, this historic market has been 'a gathering of food and friends since 1972' and is celebrating its remarkable 53rd season in 2025. Located on East Railroad Street west of Pattee Street, where it has operated continuously since its founding, the market runs Saturday mornings from 8 AM to 12:30 PM and Tuesday evenings from 5:30 PM to 7 PM. Originally created as an outlet for local farmers and gardeners to sell their produce in a part of town that was largely forgotten, the market's popularity has grown tremendously over the decades. The city has invested in improvements including doubling the market space by moving the locomotive, creating the central plaza, and adding lighting and brickwork for ambience. The success of the Missoula Farmers Market has been so significant that it sparked the creation of additional markets including the People's Market and the Clark Fork River Market, cementing its role as the cornerstone of Missoula's vibrant local food scene.